Question on veins post-chemo

[Carol.hope]

I have "challenging veins" since chemo (20 infusions, the usual MUGAs, etc, no port). It's been 4 years and it still takes most MDs and RNs several tries to get a good IV. I wonder if there's something I can do to get my veins back to normal?

I had Sentinel Node Biopsy and I think only 3 lymph nodes removed. Does anyone have experience with using veins in the Sentinel Node arm? So far all my docs say to avoid using that arm, but I don't know if that's based on old information when most people had many nodes removed. Last week my doc had to try 6 times to get a vein that worked. I was sure ready to switch arms. I look like a junkie, with all the bruises!

I've been taken twice by ambulance to the ER (over 4 years) and don't know how important it is to make sure I gather my wits and tell them to use the non-Sentinel Node arm.

I'd appreciate hearing what you know. Thanks.